Hurricane the storm Gains Power As It Moves In the Direction of Jamaica
Cyclone the storm is forecast to escalate to a infrequent category five storm as it turns toward Jamaica, bringing life-threatening flash flooding and landslides.
The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to make landfall by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.
Alerts of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane produces up to 30 inches of rain and sea level surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been advised.
Melissa is the thirteenth storm in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.
Most Intense Hurricane Danger
A Category 5 storm is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 252 km/h.
Although this storm is expected to weaken to a category four cyclone before reaching the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it hits the island.
Urgent Safety Steps
With tropical storm-level winds and rain already expected ahead of it passes over Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - advisories state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".
"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and torrential rain has started and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and multiple landslides," counseled climate experts.
Jamaican Prime Minister the official stated: "I know that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are very concerned, and with good reason: worry is natural.
"Yet the most effective method to handle worry and any unease and worry is to stay ready."
Locals are being instructed to protect their properties with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to stock up on necessary supplies.
Wider Impact
Alerts are also ongoing for areas in Haiti such as the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.
Landslides already being caused by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.
Expected Course
Melissa is predicted to cross Cuba by midweek before moving through the Greater Antilles and entering the open ocean.
By the time it makes contact with Cuba, it is forecast to have reduced to a category three storm.
Environmental Connection
Although it is challenging to connect individual weather events to environmental shifts, researchers say it is causing meteorological events more prevalent and more intense.
Higher ocean heat create additional humidity in the atmosphere, helping fuel the development of storms.
Ahead of the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies predicted above-normal activity, referencing heated marine conditions and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.
